390/4-Speed: 1969 AMC AMX

Although it’s sort of like comparing apples to oranges, one similarity between the AMX and the Chevrolet Corvette is that they were the only true two-seaters built in America at the time, with the steel-bodied AMC offering costing buyers a lot less money.  The AMX had a short life as a stand-alone model, produced from 1968 through 1970, and was based on the Javelin, which was longer and could hold twice as many occupants.  The seller begins by reporting that his 1969 AMC AMX here on Hemmings looks and sounds good, and that was enough to hook Barn Finds reader PRA4SNW, whom we’d like to thank for providing the tip here!  Located in Bear Creek, Pennsylvania, the current bid of $23,000 isn’t a satisfactory amount for the owner to let this beauty go, and it will be interesting to watch and see if this car climbs high enough to lift the reserve.

Even the base 290 engine delivered a respectable 225 horsepower here in 1969, with buyers who stepped up to the 348 getting even more, as its output was 280.  Even better was the 390, which received a factory horsepower rating of 315.  The latter is what you’ll find under the hood here, with the seller indicating that the letter X in the VIN confirms that’s how this one rolled off the assembly line.  He also indicates that it was rebuilt during a previous ownership, and is believed to still be the original engine.  It’s attached to a 4-speed manual transmission, with power going to a limited-slip rear end with a 3.54 gear ratio, so this one’s guaranteed to put a smile on the face of whoever’s behind the wheel!

The exterior was also repainted before the seller’s acquisition, and while he is unsure of the factory color, the sheet metal is now wearing what is thought to be the Pompeii Yellow color.  There’s no word on whether any bodywork was performed before the respray, but the panels appear straight and in good shape, with the owner reporting no dents or scratches in the finish.  Several photos from the undercarriage are included, and fortunately, this one also seems strong and solid down below.

The seats and door panels have been recovered with cloth, and most everything inside appears to be in excellent condition.  The factory radio has been replaced with a unit that features a cassette player, and purists probably won’t appreciate that aftermarket steering wheel.  However, aside from the helm, I’m finding very little inside, outside, or mechanically not to like about this 1969 AMC AMX.  How about you?